Home » Sports » MLB » Pittsburgh Pirates

Pirates’ Paul Skenes warned about potential issue that may explain his 2026 regression

Paul Skenes knew long before his disappointing 2026 season that one aspect of his pitching mechanics would require constant attention throughout his career.

By Emma Lingan · Rum Bunter

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 11:03 AM

Key Things to Know

A higher arm slot and mechanical shift may explain Paul Skenes' statistical regression during the 2026 season.
Skenes previously acknowledged in May 2025 that monitoring his arm slot would be crucial throughout his pitching career.
Opposing batters hit .233 against Skenes' changeup in 2026, up significantly from .103 in 2025.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes experienced a notable regression in 2026, finishing with a 3.82 ERA after claiming the NL Cy Young Award in 2025. Emma Lingan of Rum Bunter reports that a shift in Skenes' arm slot, an issue the pitcher noted he needed to monitor back in 2025, may explain his struggles, particularly with his changeup.

Analysis revealed that Skenes released pitches from an arm slot two to four degrees higher in 2026, leading to a flatter changeup with reduced movement. While declining fastball velocity and fatigue from the World Baseball Classic also contributed, Lingan suggests identifying this mechanical adjustment provides optimism for a bounce-back in 2027.

Read the full article on Rum Bunter

Pirates’ Paul Skenes warned about potential issue that may explain his 2026 regression

More Pittsburgh Pirates News

Never Miss a Sports Update